Simgot EN1000

Simgot "King Wonder” EN1000 – Gaze Upon A Flawed Sovereignty​

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Disclaimer​

• This is a my own personal unit and all opinions are original ideas, hence there’s no influences, external opinions and involvements from any 3rd-party.
• No EQ or filter presets are used throughout the whole review.
• Since this model has 3 tuning plug options, only the blue indicated plug (Balanced) will be used as a main reference throughout the whole review.

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Introduction
Simgot is one of Chinese Hi-Fi (Chi-Fi) brands that has generated rapid popularity and followers in recent times with some of their models that are popular among newcomers who are just getting into this rabbit hole and senior Chi-Fi enthusiasts alike, such as the EW100P, EW200 and EA500 that offers supreme audio quality and features brilliant premium construction at an affordable price.

Established in 2015, Simgot as per quoted from their website which also means "Simple and Elegant", originally it was not a well-known brand like it is now especially in Asia market. Starting from their first model EN700, followed by the later 700 Bass and 700 Pro models which has received numerous favorable response worldwide. Until then, the release of the EM2 Roltion which really became a "hype" in the last few years and has landed a brand new landmark for Simgot to continue strengthen it’s name into the Chi-Fi market.

Therefore, with me this time is the EN1000 model or also known by its nickname “King Wonder”, which supposed to be the successor to their first flagship EN700 Pro. This IEM, priced around $189 is equipped with a 10mm dynamic driver with a DLC diaphragm coated with a layer of beryllium plating. In addition, this IEM also comes with a package of 3 types of tuning plugs that can be replaced according to the listener's suitability, granted that being said the main highlight in this review apart from its sound. With all the pleasantries are done, let's continue with the review of the Simgot King Wonder EN1000.





Unboxing Experience
For starters, the EN1000 came in an all black box, decorated with rose gold lettering written all over the box. In front of it, is a realistic illustration of the IEM itself, while on the side and back of the box lies all the information about the technology that has been implemented into this IEM including the general specification info. In addition, there’s also a frequency response graph of the EN1000 alongside the effects of each tuning plugs towards the frequency response of the IEM that is interchangeable easily via plug-&-play.

Truly luxurious, was my initial impression upon opening the box of this IEM for the very first time. In terms of presentation and arrangement of all accessories including the IEM itself, were neat and tidy indirectly increases the value of this IEM, it really looks astoundingly amazing for an IEM that costs well under $200.

Upon unboxing the box, you are immediately greeted by the IEM itself, an appreciation card from Simgot which included inside was also a warranty extension card. In addition, there is also an IEM case made of synthetic leather, several cards showing wearing guides for the IEM, an illustrated tutorial on how to change the tuning plugs, a user manual and last but not least a warranty card. Simgot was very generous to provide two set of eartips of different sizes, an 8-core SPC cable that is made out of high quality, non-microphonic material and not to forget the 3 types of tuning plugs that we will discuss later below.


Specifications

• Driver: 10mm 5th Gen Dual-cavity, DLC & Beryllium-plated Diaphragm Dynamic Driver
• Impedance: 32 Ohms ± 15% (@1kHz/N-type MIRROR module)
• Sensitivity: 108 dB/SPL
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz
• Cable: 8 core 5N Silver-plated OFC, 0.78mm 2-pin connector

Build and Comfort
Captivating, one word that summed up to describe the looks of the EN1000. This IEM is not just meant to be worn, but could may as well fooled somebody and mistaken as a piece of jewellery due to their truly stunning build quality. Combined with delicate and meticulous engraved artworks that is sure to catch the eye of plenty crowd. The basic building material for this EN1000 is aluminum alloy metal and stainless steel that has undergone a 5-axis CNC machining process and Metal Injection Molding (MIM) which also be the reason the amount of heft this IEM has, which may affect the comfort during use.

Meanwhile, switching the view towards the interchangeable tuning plug technology which is one of the main highlight on the EN1000. To be completely honest, the whole unorthodox system of using a detachable plug that Simgot tried to implement inside the EN1000 was unconvincing in terms of durability for the long run. As far as it concerns me, the connection is quite loose even though it is installed tightly, not to mention the thin pins that might bend during installation/detaching process. Additionally, the plastic grooves on both sides of the plug will probably wear out, depending on how often you swap between the plugs. Where it will affect the integrity of sound quality that’s produced, even though there is an external barrel casing that acts as a tightening mechanism.

Moving into the next point, in terms of overall wearing comfort it was a rather an unpleasant experience. This is due to ergonomics, because this IEM has a short nozzle with a rather odd oval design. This makes it difficult to get a tight and secure fitting. Indirectly, this left a large impact on the isolation of the EN1000, it is difficult to get optimal tightness even with various types of eartips including the ones that have been provided. Other factors such as the two venting holes on the front and next to the nozzle of each side of this IEM also played a lesser key role to prevent external noise that can still be clearly heard.


Test Equipment

• Apple Music/Spotify + Local files via HiBy Music > Letshuoer DT02 dongle DAC/AMP (1 Vrms@32 Ohms (SE) and 2 Vrms@300 Ohms (Bal).
• Laptops
• Smart phone

Power Requirements
As far as driveability is concerned of the EN1000, it is an IEM that is both efficient and easy to drive via a low-powered dongle, or you can plug it directly to a smartphone and it’ll run just fine. For example, by using the Letshuoer DT02 dongle which has a power of 1 Vrms @32 Ohms (SE) as my point of reference, this IEM can be powered optimally and be able reach comfortable volume easily with still a lot of headroom in hand to increase the volume.

Using the in-app volume through HiBy Music as a point of reference, I only needed to increase the volume by 4 up to 6/32 to reach my personal comfortable volume for my most listening. In relation to that as well, the EN1000 stays dead silent and does not easily affected or to pick up any humming and hissing/white noises across various equipments that I have tried.


Initial Impression

For starters, the sound signature produced by the EN1000 is synonymous to a mild Harman with a moderate bass-shelf height and a little emphasis on the high frequencies/treble, in simple words the EN1000 has a sound signature focused on being a balanced-bright pair of IEM. Even so, the EN1000 is an IEM that could not be simply categorized as bright, cold or analytical, as the treble timbre of this IEM it is more sort of a cool tone with a balanced amount of low frequencies to provides a musical, slightly mellow and comfortable listening experience even for longer periods of time.

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Low Frequency
Starting right away from the lowest sub-bass frequency, the EN1000 has a roll-off that causes this IEM to produce a rather lacking sub-bass performance especially with rumbles and vibrations, although that seemed to be the case this IEM was able to present a detailed texture with very good overall definition. For example in the track, Hollow (16-bit Remix) – Björk the EN1000 found it difficult to replicate the deep rumbles and vibrations of sub-bass as low as 20Hz in the first 30 seconds in the beginning of this track although in terms of dynamics, the 10mm dynamic driver (DD) on this EN1000 did its job very well.

Entering into the mid and upper bass region of the EN1000, this IEM presents a tight, energetic and dynamic bass. Every bass hit were tight, slightly bouncy, and deep with a adequate amount of weight. However, the impact of the bass hit on this IEM was more focused on a politer side and a bit less controlled, therefore the speed produced by the DD in this EN1000 were to be found slightly weak. For example, in Hunter – Björk where at the beginning of the song listeners were presented with rapid bass punch followed by reverberation in between each and sub-bass rumble in the background. The EN1000 presents the bass punch impactfully but with a slightly weaker anticipation and speed.

Mid Frequency
Next, moving into the midrange which the EN1000 presents a soft midrange presentation clean from any harshness or mud, as the IEM also presented detailed and euphonic. There is a slight tonal coloration that can be heard, thus causing the midrange including male and female vocals to sound a tad warmer than neutral. For example, in the track Whiskey Lullaby (ft. Alison Krauss) – Brad Paisley and A Poem Titled You – Taeyeon where the voices of the singers in both tracks have a slightly added tonal warmth than neutral, meanwhile presentation distance is slightly forward depending on the type of plug tuning that will be talked about later.

The quality of the timbre is also one of the strengths of the EN1000 which gives the ability to easily distinguish the types of vocals/instruments/percussions. The track Down In A Hole (MTV Unplugged) – Alice in Chains was used for this purpose. The tone of Jerry Cantrell and Layne Staley on a part of the song. Where they sing several fillers with the same pitch and this IEM quite easily distinguishes their voices, Layne Staley’s iconic grundge voice was presented detailed with average texture. The harmony between all of the elements and acoustic guitar passages in the background sounded a little soft, smooth and lush due to the slightly warm tonality that this IEM posseses.

High Frequency
Finally, for the treble response it can be said that the EN1000 skewed slightly leaning brighter treble. However, although that’s being said it is more of a cool treble rather than cold, as per mentioned in initial impression. For example, in an IEM that really emphasizes high frequency tend to have a much colder, dry treble. As we continue, the EN1000 presents listener with a wide treble extension providing an airy ambience, detailed, exciting and clear clarity.

However, there was a minimal emphasis on the area around 5-6kHz could be heard right away, which causes the EN1000 to have a slightly sharp and edgy treble. For example, in the track Ignorance (Acoustic) – Paramore, Hayley Williams’s pronunciation of the words "s, sh, t, th" have an accentuated sibilance that is more inclined towards sharp than rough, sound reproduction of tambourine in the background were also accentuated yet light, a tad sharp and edgy.

As for the synergy of eartips, options like Azla Xelastec are among my favorites to pair with this IEM. These eartips are very helpful to get a perfect seal with the EN1000, allowing a wider range and deeper sub-bass extension. In addition, these eartips help to provide a darker background to the midrange of this IEM while providing fluidity and a more natural, organic tone to vocals, stringed instruments such as violin, double-bass, acoustic guitar etc.

Memory foams such as the Acoustune AT02 and Hill Audio Ergo Pro also work very well to provide a much open midrange with warmer tonality but slightly softer although its not as warm as with the Xelastec. Treble also sounds more natural, free of sibilance and helps in terms of airiness. Soundstaging became a bit wider with better element separation but detail retrieval was a tad less nuanced.

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Technical Ability
From a technical point of view, the EN1000 is capable of presenting wide soundstaging horizontally and vertically with decent spatial, the movement of elements is displayed clearly but not the most pinpoint accurate. In addition, this IEM also has the ability to provide excellent detail retrieval even when the track is played at low volume. Microdetails and subtle nuances are able to be presented by the EN1000, for example the sound of the plane in the beginning of the song Hotel California (1976) – Eagles which is clearly heard from right to left.

The separation aspect of the EN1000 was also a key strength of this IEM, it can separate various elements in a track well. For example, in the track Mad About You (Live at Koningin Elisabethzaal 2012) – Hooverphonics, the EN1000 were able to give an illusion with every element in this track is neatly arranged, well separated without causing any congestion or melding. Although, in terms of layering the EN1000 could only able to perform quite decently.

Finally, in terms of dynamic range, the EN1000 presents an average dynamic range. By using the Ultimate Headphone Test - ABYSS Headphone dynamic range sample as a reference. Where the sound of drums and bells are played simultaneously as many as 7 times, but only the sound of the bells changes and becomes quieter. Out of a scale of 7, the EN1000 was able to produce a decent 5 out of 7 count clearly.

Interchangeable Tuning Plugs – Is It Just a Gimmick or a Miracle?​

"Infinite tuning possibilities", quoted from Simgot’s appreciation card which explains the function of the tuning plugs, one of the main features of this flagship model. Long story short, these plugs turned out to actually work according to its promise that provides 3 types of distinct change of sound. Allows you to change some part of the frequency range of this IEM according to your taste likewise with Equalization (EQ). However, it is limited for only the selected part of the spectrum band only which starts from 2kHz on aggregate and all the way above.

• Black Plug (N3A000)

Its the original configuration when you receive the EN1000. In terms of sound difference, this plug provides the most forward midrange presentation, treble clarity and extension. But this effect indirectly causes the midrange of this IEM to be thin and quite shouty. This plug also makes the treble sounds marginally brighter and dry yet it presents the most clarity out of all. In consequence to it, other effects such as sibilance and treble sharpness are also a lot noticeable when using this plug. Low frequencies are also affected where they sound lighter, tighter and bass impact also skewed more towards being soft compared to the prior polite. Therefore, it is not suitable if you are sensitive to treble, or those who care about treble quality.

• Blue Plug (C3A035)

In simple words, this is the plug labeled by Simgot as "Balanced" among the three tuning plugs which is also the original EN1000 tuning. To summarize, even if you change the stock cable to an aftermarket cable, the sound signature of this IEM will by default change based on the graph with this plug. This blue plug also provides change in sound predominantly within the treble region, offering an airy and wide treble extension similar to the black plug, only slightly lower by approximately 1-2 dB.

As a result, the EN1000's midrange sounded slightly much relaxed and shoutyness are none to be heard, with the most balanced presentation right in-between forward/recessed with softer, organic tonality compared to the black plug. Sibilance and the sharp treble can still be heard with this plug although at a much tolerable level. Low frequencies also sounded slightly fuller with greater bass weight although in overall sense this IEM is still considered bass light.

• Red Plug (C3A045)

Meanwhile, for this red plug it is opposite to the function of the black plug. For example, low frequencies have a bassier, fuller and richer impact with this plug. The midrange presentation being the least forward, much warmer/darker in terms of tonality and richer overall.

In addition, in the high frequency area it is clearly more comfortable and relaxed. Although, it loses a little treble presence and extension and treble clarity is also a bit less clear. However, sharp treble and sibilance were the least which made this combination very suitable for people who are sensitive to treble.



Comparison

TRI Audio iOne + TRI Clarion eartips (1DD – USD$279/MYR1279)​

In this comparison, iOne right from the beginning shown that this IEM has a higher bass shelf with a sound signature that focuses on the classic Harman V-shaped sound that is synonymous with the masses. With a wider sub-bass extension, more texture, definition and an emphasis on the mid-upper bass indeed presents a richer, solid bass with a heavier bass quantity compared to the EN1000. The bass on the iOne were also much agile with greater anticipation and control to the EN1000.

As for the midrange, the iOne has a more laid back and relaxed presentation due to its midrange being a lot more recessed compared to the EN1000. Although, that seems to differ the characteristics of both IEM yet they share a similar colouration despite the iOne was able to present more texture and definition on vocals especially in men compared to the EN1000 which emphasizes a light, fresher midrange with a higher amount of clarity and detail.

Finally, for treble and technicality of both IEMs have similar airiness and horizontal soundstaging but frontally there is more depth on the EN1000. Even so, the treble on the iOne is more relaxed and free from any sibilance nor harshness. Nevertheless, EN1000 were able to provide a much energetic treble and more clarity. Detail retrieval is more or less similar, however, on the EN1000 the resolution is noticeably clearer even at low volumes as expected from an IEM that emphasizes treble. Even so, the iOne has a wider and much extended dynamic range compared to the EN1000, plus the ability to display more accurate spatial imaging also favors the iOne.


Conclusion
To conclude the whole review about the Simgot "King Wonder" EN1000, it is a very versatile IEM in presenting music of various genres and presented in one quality package in my view. Its ability to provide the 3 types of sound signature that listeners want in one whole package which complimented with an astounding artistic artwork and brilliant construction, is truly able to captivate the hearts of many audiences who care about the aesthetic value of their IEMs that matches its sound quality.

Like a sovereign where there was sat a king which his fate is similar to nature of mortal beings. But, due to the existence between cooperation and synergy among his people, a prosperous and united government was built.

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Similarly, as the reader are already aware of the shortcomings of this EN1000 which might attract negative reactions, but it can be helped by combining the various tuning plugs and selections of eartips that may bear a fruit of a strong synergy. Thus, this is also marks the end of my review this time. I hope you all enjoy it as I am happy to present you with this Simgot King Wonder EN1000 review, hopefully we will meet in the next review!


Additional Test Track
Artemis - Lindsey Stirling 44.1kHz

添迷不悔(Zhi Mi Bu Hui) - Faye Wong DSD256

Would? (MTV Unplugged) – Alice in Chains 44.1kHz

First Love - Hikaru Utada 44.1kHz

Motherboard - Daft Punk DSD256

Something About Us 44.1kHz

Automatic – Hikaru Utada 44.1kHz

DISCLAIMER

I would like to thank Fia from Simgot for providing this review unit. The EN1000 can be obtained here: https://www.amazon.com/SIMGOT-EN1000-Dual-Cavity-Beryllium-Plated-Replaceable/dp/B0B7RQ6ZZW (no affliate links).




SPECIFICATIONS

Driver configuration: 10 mm dual-cavity dynamic driver (DLC & beryllium-plated composite diaphragm)
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 40000 Hz
Impedance: 32 Ohms
Sensitivity: 108dB/mW
Cable: 2-pin, 0.78 mm, 8 strand silver-plated OFC cable with 3 modular plugs
Plug: 3.5 mm
Tested at $189.99 USD


ACCESSORIES



The EN1000 come in a large box. Other than the IEM, these are included:
- 6 pairs of silicone ear tips (S, M, L)
- Carrying case
- Cable
- 3 x modular plugs


The accessories are pretty serviceable for a MidFI IEM, other than the lack of foam tips and perhaps a balanced 2.5 mm/4.4 mm cable option.




One sole variant of silicone eartips are packaged, and there is a duplicate set (same diameter and bore) included, both laid in a nice tray insert.

The tips are pretty well balanced from a comfort and sonic point of view, but perhaps the addition of other types of tips would not have gone unappreciated.




The stock cable only comes in a 3.5 mm single-ended termination. It is a 8 strand silver-plated OFC cable, which is quite supple, though on the tangly side. Thankfully, there are zero microphonics, and there's a chin cinch to give added stability.

The proximal ends of the cables have a L and R lettering to delineate the left and right sides respectively. I'm not a MMCX fan, as this type of connector may get loose with frequent cable swapping, so 2-pin connectors are always a plus in my book.

Unlike other traditional "tunable" IEMs that use screw-on nozzles or switches to change the sonic profile, the EN1000 transposes its tonality via 3 distal modular plugs. We will discuss what the various plugs offer via graphs below in the sound section.



Switching out the plugs first involves removing a screw-on protective sheath on the cable, then fitting the plug in (via aligning the dots). In practice, this takes more time than a traditional tuning switch/nozzle, and it might cause wear and tear, and may be a point of failure down the line. Indeed, the durability of said tuning plugs is quite worrying, as they look a bit flimsy, and may get loose with repeated changes, or damaged during swapping.




The provided semi-rigid case is made of PVC, and is quite solid; it should survive a crush or drop. The innards have a soft covering, with webbing to hold the 3 modular plugs.

The rest of this review was done with the stock cable and stock tips. No aftermarket accessories were used, so as not to add any confounders to the sound.


BUILD/COMFORT

The word "beautiful" does not do justice to the Simgot EN1000's shells. They feel and look like jewelry and look better in real life. In a sea of hackneyed grey and black metallic IEMs, the EN1000 is really a looker.




Each chassis is fashioned from lightweight aluminum-alloy, via a 5-axis CNC engraving process. The metal frame is formed from an MIM stainless steel powder mould, and the inner chambers are polished to a mirror-like finish via electroplating. An elegant crystal glass panel covers the faceplate, and the bass of the faceplate is made from silk screen printing and electroplating, incorporating an intricate leaf motif.

The engine of the EN1000 is a 10 mm dual-cavity dynamic driver (DLC & beryllium-plated composite diaphragm), with the inner acoustic chamber comprising a 2-layer tuning cloth system with a 32Ω Daikoku voice coil.




There's a R and L lettering emblazoned on each shell to identify the sides, with the words "King Wonder" inscribed on the shells. The inner aspect of the shells have a mirror-like finish, and they may be a fingerprint or scratch magnet, so please take good care of these puppies!




Most aftermarket 2-pin cables should fit the Simgot EN1000, except for QDC types, due to the rounded and slightly recessed female 2-pin port.



Comfort and ergonomics are top-notch. There are no weird protrusions in the housing to cause issues, and I've used the EN1000 for many hours without any discomfort whatsoever.

I didn't face any driver flex on my pair, but this is partially dependent on ear anatomy and/or type of eartips used, so YMMV.


ISOLATION

Being double-vented on each earpiece, isolation is below average, though the EN1000 should still be usable outdoors.


DRIVABILITY

I tested the EN1000 with:
- Khadas Tone Board -> Schiit Asgard 3 amp
- Khadas Tone Board -> Topping L30 amp
- Creative Sound Blaster X5
- Hiby R3 Pro Saber 2022 DAP
- Shanling M0 Pro DAP
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One WM1Z Plus v2 Mod)
- Sony Walkman NW A-55 DAP (Walkman One Neutral Mod)
- Questyle M15 DAC/AMP dongle
- Apple dongle
- E1DA DAC/AMP dongle
- Colorfly CDA M1 DAC/AMP dongle
- Truthear SHIO DAC/AMP dongle
- Tempotec Sonata HD Pro dongle (BHD firmware)
- Smartphone

The EN1000 is easy to drive. Amplification is not truly required, though this set will scale with amplification, with regards to better dynamics and bass tightness.


SOUND & TECHNICALITIES

The EN1000's greatest asset, is none other than the 3 tuning options offered via the aforementioned tuning plugs.


Graphs of the EN1000 with various tuning plugs, using an IEC711 compliant coupler. 8kHz area is a coupler artefact peak.
The tuning plugs work as some sort of impedance adapters/low pass RC filters, and they primarily affect the FR above 2 kHz. As the ears take the entire frequency spectrum as a whole, even slight increases in the treble region will correspondingly make the ears perceive the bass to be decreased, and vice versa (See Saw Effect).

Thus, the tuning plugs are not gimmicks (unlike some other "tunable" IEMs), and they actually do change the sound and provide 3 different tonalities.



All 3 tuning plugs give variants of a V-shaped profile.

The first module is for treble-heads - the N3A000 (black) module. It brings excellent resolution and transparency, and has the greatest treble extension of the various modules. The soundscape is very airy and open, with excellent details and clarity, but there is a 5 kHz spike, which can cause fatigue for those who are treble-sensitive. Soundstage is very expansive on this setting, though the bass is the leanest (but tightest).

We next have a bass module, the blue C3A045 (red) module, which brings a dark treble and warmer signature. Clarity, micro-detailing and resolution are dampened, though this setting is useful for long chill listening sessions. The soundstage is also the most compressed of the various modules.

Last but not least, we have a balanced module (the blue C30A35), which is kind of a mid-point between the above 2 modules in terms of tonality and technicalities, and this is my personal favourite (it is less harsh and sibilant than the black N3A000 module, yet keeping respectable technicalities).



The sonic impressions below will be with the C30A35 (blue, balanced) plug installed.

Timbre is generally quite organic, except for perhaps a slight metallic tinge in the upper end. Note weight lies on the thinner side.

The bass is mid-bass focused, and is north of neutral but not at basshead levels. Sub-bass has a roll-off and isn't the most extended, though the mid-bass is very clean and fast, with zero mid-bass bleed. Texturing is above average.

The lower mids are slightly depressed. With no big bass to impinge on the lower midrange, this area is very transparent and midlovers will have a field day. The upper midrange has a 9 dB pinna gain, pushing vocals forwards without veering too much into shouty territory.

The lower treble has a peak around the 5 kHz area, and the treble has good extension thereafter. This brings lots of sparkle and air to the tuning, and provides great resolution and clarity. There is just mild sibilance, and high hats and cymbals are quite natural (no splashiness heard).

The EN1000 is called the "KING WONDER", and it is indeed a king when it comes to technicalities, especially when A/B testing is done against other similarly priced single DD rivals. Soundstage is expansive in all 3 dimensions and imaging is quite pinpoint in a dark background, with superb layering. Micro-detailing and instrument separation are very decent, and the EN1000 has rapid transients.


COMPARISONS

The EN1000 will be compared against other similarly priced "tunable" single DDs. Pure BA, hybrids and planars are omitted , as the different driver types have their own pros and cons.



Moondrop KATO

The KATO is tuned to Moondrop's virtual diffuse sound field (VDSF) tuning philosophy (which is their in-house variant of the Harman curve), except it is bassier than the standard VDSF curve. The KATO has two tuning nozzles, though they are gimmicks, with an extremely subtle change in sound only. Hence, the EN1000 is the more versatile pair in lieu of the various sound signatures it can give.

Timbre is slightly more natural on the EN1000. When it comes to technicalities, the KATO is weaker in soundstage and imaging, though micro-details and clarity is about on par. The KATO sounds very in-your-head with a compressed soundstage, and music can get muddy when complex tracks come out to play.


Toneking Ninetails

The Ninetails is a single DD that operates via a front and rear tuning nozzle on each housing. It is named after an East Asian fox spirit that can shapeshift, and the Ninetails lives up to its namesake in providing 9 different tuning options.


Graphs of the Toneking Ninetails, using an IEC711 compliant coupler. 8kHz area is a coupler artefact peak.

Essentially, the Ninetails is more versatile (9 tuning options versus 3), and has more drastic changes in the FR. The Ninetails can be tuned along a spectrum, from a jaw-rattling inducing basshead behemoth, all the way to a dead neutral set, to a treble-heads' wetdream. The EN1000 in contrast, just shows more subtle changes along a V-shaped tuning.

The Ninetails has weaker technicalities across all settings, and loses to the EN1000 in micro-detailing, instrument separation and clarity. The Ninetails bass is boomy and untextured, though it has more authentic timbral accuracy.

The Ninetails fit is quite awkward and uncomfortable, due to a unique gourd design, and it has weaker isolation (it is semi-open backed).


BQEYZ Autumn

The BQEYZ Autumn has 3 tuning options via a creative magnetic swappable nozzle mechanism, which changes the FR below 300 Hz. Interestingly, like the EN1000, it has a peak centered around the 5 kHz region across all tuning settings.


Graphs of the BQEYZ Autumn, using an IEC711 compliant coupler. 8kHz area is a coupler artefact peak.

The Autumn is a bit bassier, though timbre is a bit less natural on the Autumn, when it comes to acoustic instruments and vocals.

The Autumn is weaker in technicalities, with inferior imaging, micro-detailing, instrument separation and clarity. Both sets are soundstage champs, but the Autumn has poorer soundstage depth and height.


CONCLUSIONS
Spoiler: the EN1000 sounds as good as it looks.

Aesthetics are really alluring, and it fits like a glove. This set also boasts commendable technical chops, especially with regards to a huge soundstage and pinpoint imaging.



The selling point of course, is the 3 tuning options that make the EN1000 quite versatile. Eschewing the traditional tuning switch or nozzle, the EN1000 has 3 mercurial tunings via an innovative tuning plug at the distal end of the stock cable. The tuning plugs do work, though they take some time to swap out, and its longevity may be a question to consider.

Some other small nitpicks would be a sub-bass roll-off across all tunings, and the treble-head plug may be too harsh for our treble-sensitive brethren. Otherwise, accessories are pretty premium (other than a lack of foam or other silicone tips), and the EN1000 really brings a lot of novel things to the midFI single DD table. It is a definitely a set to consider, for single DD aficionados!

Can a sub £200 do it all and still deliver?​

I was approached by Simgot recently through the hallowed pages of head-fi. The introduction has resulted in my being able to bring you the latest, and greatest, this company has yet built. I bought an EN700 Bass IEM on impulse several years ago. I liked the sound of it, despite it's obvious affinity with lower frequencies. I still have it knocking around the offices, and have customised the body shell, which, although it has my favourite pebble shape, had this urge to keep pushing away from my inner ear. Unknown to Simgot, I can say that this is a company for which I already have a feel. I got the impression that Simgot wanted to push the boundaries, in every direction, of what could be achieved in a budget earphone. The Simgot was the best of several AliExpress purchases made on a slow day between review samples. We all get those days. Such days now feel more like moments as my reviews have taken on a momentum, but, if you've got the time I'd encourage you to do a random dive into Ali and see where it takes you. It can get pretty interesting. Simgot is a Chinese Company, they make pebble shaped single driver in ear moniters their speciality. The EN1000 review sample here came with all the packaging of the retail model. The packaging has been as well thought through as the engineering process. There is a question mark over the title "King Wonder", however, with it being stencilled in every conceivable crevice of the EN1000, familiarity will overcome any initial misgivings. More detailed reactions can be found in my YouTube vid :





The soon to be released EN1000

About the King Wonder​

I'm going to call them the EN1000 from now on I think.... This is a single driver IEM design. The single driver is a dual dynamic. It is housed in a pebble shaped body shell. There are 2 designs for the face plate; the black and gold leaf filligree as shown above, and it's white and gold cousin. The iems are connected to a detachable cable which is terminated with a 3.5 mm jack. I have deliberately given you just the basic facts here; this is the essence, the core, of the EN1000. To each part of the IEM there are various tweaks, which at least deserve a little more discussion.


Single Driver


A single driver is a bold move for an IEM in these driver heavy days. A classic design is never really going to disappear though, is it? A single driver needs no crossover. It needs to be a good driver. That's it. Many years ago, AKG decided to give it's engineers a free reign to create a Flagship Headphone. They came up with a dynamic single driver model - the mythical AKG K1000. The Sennheiser IE800 remains 1 of the best sounding IEMs ever made, despite it's terrible fit, overly heavy cable which (shock horror!) is fixed. The IE800 is a single driver dynamic, and is unashamedly so. This particular design has a few updated things going on compared to the 2 I have described. It is housed in a dual cavity. The wiring connecting the driver to the electrics is pure silver.


The diaphrahm of the driver is stronger than your standard paper cone. It has a beryllium coating. If you have followed my writings over the last few years you'll know that I'm a great fan of the linearity that beryllium appears to bring, having seen this in the KBear Believe and the Final D8000 In Ears. The diaphragm also contains DLC. This is short for diamond like carbon. Diamond, being, of course, one of the hardest materials on the planet. Not quite as tough as beryllium though. Beryllium was used for the shields surrounding the space shuttle, to protect it from melting on re-entry. The body shell is made from CNC Aluminium Alloy, the face plate from crystal, to protect it from scratches. The results of said are all hints of quality. Attention to detail, important selling points yes, but also not only should this produce a better feel than the standard plastic iem, it should provide a better resonating surface for the driver, and thus a better sound quality.


The Accessories


I am pleased to say that, from the tasteful professionalism of the outer cardboard, to the earphone case that comes as a pleasant surprise,


Simgot have sat down and thought extremely carefully about what will keep the customer satisfied. The mark of quality has been cast over the entirety of the EN1000. Other comapnies take note - the gauntlet has been thrown down here. The only thing I can criticise is the eartips. I've got better ones, and eventually I'll start using them. The tips are not quite there; they tend to slip out of the earlobe. A little more grip is called for, be it slightly larger tips or different material, or a patterned finish - I'm not that hard to please folks at Simgot. I'm a medium guy, so those large tips supplied are too large. Everyone's earlobes are different and I have a small ear canal entrance which bends ridiculously away as soon as it gets the chance. The fit, absolutely critical for me, i.e sweet spot or no sound, may not be as bad for you. My advice is to hold onto your existing eartips if you are upgrading to the EN1000 - the fit is everything.


The Cable


This is the showpiece for the EN1000. The previous stuff is all typical of what is being offered in many good IEMs out there in the sub $200 category. The EN1000 comes with an 8 strand silver plated oxygen free copper cable which has a .78mm 2 pin fit and is 1.2 metres in length. It has memory wire and is angled at the end. It has a soft feel, is shiny and is fairly weighty. What I have left til the end is; this cable has a replaceable plug design. The Simgot comes with 3 different sounds before you need to touch your eq settings. The box reveals not only a leather effect carry box - there are 2 plugs contained inside- a blue and a red one. Simply put; you can alter the signature of the EN1000 dependant on which plug you use. This allows bit perfect to be utilised, which, of course, means you cannot use eq. All it takes is a quick unscrewing of the barrel, 2-3 pulls of the male and female bits and in 10 seconds, you have a different plug on.

The test​

For this bit I will give a synopsis of the differences between plugs 1, 2 & 3. I will then go on with the show with my favourite plug, the grey, and tell you about my impression in more length.


The Plugs


I don't blame you for being skeptical regarding just how much a plug can alter the sound from an iem. I am very wary of such claims, having tested the Tri Starsea which had a switch system on the body shell, much more convenient than taking a cable apart. The review of the Starsea is here : https://subjective.reviews/tri-star...-allows-you-to-beat-the-engineer-but-can-you/


In summary, I found the Starsea didn't sound that good unless you kept the switch on default. The switch made the sound worse. The plug design is more radical and does create an audibly altered signature which has good things going for each of the plugs. Good news! Let me tell you a little more as to what I heard when I put these different plugs in.


The Grey plug


This is the stock plug. I reason this because it is the plug they put on to get you up and running. This is what you listen to for the first time while you are checking that everything is working properly. And, as I have preached many times before, first impressions are really important. This is never more crucial in todays blind purchasing scenarios, whereby there is nowhere to try out an iem one is interested in, and the closest you'll get will be from reviews like this. Companies know this and offer (well, it's the law) a 28 day return policy. The most critical part of that timeframe, in my opinion, is the 1st 15 minutes of a listen. A product simply has to perform to it's intended level during those 1st few moments. Therefore, nothing too risky should be tried. The eartips will have medium ones fitted, and they will be the most neutral of any particular grades offered. All goods will be dressed in their best clothes, all middle of the road, all judged to be the least controversial. In the case of the EN1000, the grey plug fits that description to a T. The grey plug has a bit of visceral bass but not overly, has a sweetness in the highs and a clarity in the mids, with the widest of the sound scapes. It is my opinion that this plug squeezes out the best the EN1000 can give. It the sound signature that the engineer would be happiest with. It's my favourite because it's not the blandest sound of the 3 plugs; it technically has a faster bass and more micro details are present in this version than in any of the others. I'd pick the grey plug for rock, pop, and classical music.


The Blue Plug


This is my 2nd favourite plug, although I could find a use for all 3 when the need arose. The bass on the blue is turned up, and to enhance the experience the mids and highs have been tuned down slightly. The lows have real punch and will make a lean track sound fuller. The mids and highs have been toned down, but the iems have a sparkle that won't go away completely, so there is plenty to enjoy, even if you're not an r&b, grime, hip hop or rap fan, these blues have a decent sound stage and clarity, despite it being pulled in slightly compared to the grey plug.


The Red Plug


The red plug is perhaps the way to tune into todays remixed, remastered, over compressed music. It tones everything down, from taaking some of the annoyance from modern bass and subbass tracks and the shrill density of the ceiling of acceptable noise in the mid to high frequencies. The sound stage is more intimate and there is little chance you will be annoyed by too much energy in the upper range. This plug is the least fatiguing of the 3. I'd use this for all day listening sessions, and I'd be quite satisfied.

Frequency Response Curve w Grey Blue or Red Plug fitted

Sound Quality​

The EN1000, on sale in US an Asian markets is retailing at slightly under $200, and that is where I shall set my impressions. If this comes in at under £200 in the UK & European markets, then it's an absolute steal. If you have 2 pin earphones, you may even be lucky enough to be able to transform them with this modular cable. They fell out of my TruthEar Hexa IEMs, so they won't fit everything, and, as far as I'm aware, they aren't claiming to be able to do wonders with any other product than a Simgot. The sound signature, at it's best with the grey plug, is crisp, like a cold bright Winter's morning, and clear, like the crystaline coating on the shell outer of the EN1000. The bass is not understated, instead a fast linearity with a teasing of viscerality is offered. The mids capture the beauty of a husky voice. The highs open the curtains of the sound stage and let the stars in.

Conclusion​

The competition


I have raved about the Truthear Hexa, this is the last IEM I reviewed and I did that less than a month ago. The Hexa is a player indeed, but it sounds thin and lacking compared to the EN1000. The Hexa sets the standard for £79.99, the EN1000 is much better, at what is likely to be more than twice the price. The only thing the Hexa wins out on is the fit. The hexagonal shape actually creates 6 points of contact with the earlobe. Not only that, but the shell has less depth, so it doesn't stick out as much.


The product


Apart from this King Wonder name, which I'm not sure about, and the eartips, which don't keep the shells firmly in my ears without a lot of jostling, there ain't much I can think of to criticise about the EN1000. They're great. They're a man for all seasons. You can go 3 ways with the Simgot - linear, bass or laidback. The EN1000 promises even more in the future. There is scope , and a plan, for Simgot to incorporate a USBC, a lightning adapter, a 2.5 and a 4.4 plug. I would be disappointed if Simgot didn't try to make this into a nice little Dac Dongle. How cool would that be? A little nod to the rest of the cast - used in this review were; courtesy of Amazon Music HD, lots of weird and wonderful streaming tracks, USB Audio Player Pro (in bit perfect mode, of course), Astell & Kern AK380 DAP, Little Bear BX4 Dual Mono Tube Headphone Amp, Samsung A52 5G, unbranded Portable Headphone Amp,


and an open minded reviewer that, after all this time, still gets impressed by the products out there that add the word 'extra' to the 'ordinary' that for so many years was considered the pinnacle of Portable Audio. This is me signing off for now, there are many many more products I am anxious to talk to you about, so please keep your eyes peeled and your ears attached to that which makes you happy.